The 2024 Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards and Fundraiser at Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Miami this month was an afternoon of vibrant celebration, recognizing outstanding achievements in Caribbean tourism, media and sports.

Among the honourees was Dominica’s own Thea LaFond, whose recent Olympic gold medal in the triple jump brought pride and joy to the entire region. CMEx provided the perfect platform to celebrate LaFond’s incredible accomplishment and hear her inspiring message.

In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received from across the Caribbean. She highlighted the unifying power of sports and the importance of leadership in inspiring future generations.

Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding attendees of the strength and potential that lie within the Caribbean community. This year’s honourees also included:

  • Kashmie Ali– Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Sailrock South Caicos  
  • Tracy Berkeley – CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority  
  • Latia Duncombe – Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation  
  • Laura Dowrich-Phillips – Caribbean Journalist and Public Relations Manager, Experience Turks and Caicos  
  • Ambassador Victor Fernandes – Veteran Caribbean Broadcaster and Barbados Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States  
  • Gloria and Solomon Herbert – Co-founders of Black Meetings & Tourism magazine  
  • Dr. Lisa Indar – Interim Executive Director, Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)  
  • Eroline and Lyton Lamontagne – Owners, Fond Doux Eco Resort in St. Lucia  
  • Vanessa Ledesma – CEO, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA)  
  • Marc Melville – CEO, Chukka Caribbean Adventures  
  • Marie McKenzie– Senior Vice President of Government and Destination Affairs, Carnival Corporation & plc  
  • Jennifer Nugent-Hill – Director of Government and Community Affairs, Tropical Shipping  
  • Simón Suárez – Vice President, Grupo Puntacana  
  • Ellison “Tommy” Thompson – Former Deputy Director General of Tourism, Bahamas, and Former CEO, St. Kitts Tourism Authority  
  • Christine Valls – Director of Sales for Latin America and the Caribbean, United Airlines  

The event was powered by The Islands of the Bahamas, and supported by Carnival Corporation & plc, Marketplace Excellence, Tropical Attractions, Tropical Shipping, Vanessa James Media, and numerous hotels and resorts throughout the Caribbean.